Perspective in Difficulty

Joseph revealed himself to his brothers in Genesis 45. They had sold him into slavery, he had spent two years in prison for something he didn't do, and then by God's gracious work he became second in command in Egypt. As his brothers came to him for food during the famine they didn't know who he was. When he finally revealed himself it seems amazing to me that he was so gracious. His perspective is very instructive for each of us who have been mistreated, suffered injustice, had things turn out differently than we could ever imagine. In the middle of our confusion and disillusionment it is helpful to look at Joseph's conclusions. "...for God sent me before you to preserve life...God sent me before you to preserve forgo a remnant in the earth and to keep you alive by a great deliverance...Now it was not you who sent me here but God..." (Gen.45:5-8). Lord, help me keep your sovereign plan and mercy in mind at all times. When I can't see your hand and I don't understand help me to trust your heart.